Kids are getting fatter
Although kids' welfare in this country is better, over all, they are getting fatter and fatter, thanks to the availability of fast foods, passive entertainment options and overprotective parenting that keeps them off the streets where they can run and play. Here's some tips to keep your child fit and trim:
1. Keep only healthful snacks in the house like fruit, crackers, etc.
2. Make sure your child doesn't skip meals because this can slow down the metabolism.
3. Give your child afternnon snacks that have both carbs and proteins: banana slices covered with peanut butter, cheese and crackers (they like the cheese you can squirt out of a can) and so on. When they eat carbs alone, it causes an excessive insulin response which not only makes their blood sugars nosedive so they get cranky, it also converts sugars into fat. Protein modulates that response so the insulin secreted is more in keeping with the body's needs.
4. Limit all forms of passive entertainment like video games, tv ,etc. Three to four hours a week should suffice.
5. Hook your kid up with active peers. Let them play outside if it's safe. Otherwise, supervise them. Encourage new sports like rollerblading, street hockey, swimming or whatever you think might interest them.
6. Sign them up for camps, programs or teams tailored to their interests: the neighborhood swim team, soccer league, etc.
7. Schedule family vacations that are active--backpacking, hiking, swimming, snorkeling,etc.
8. Model sound eating habits and healthy physical activity in your own life.
9. Avoid criticizing your child if he's overweight. This can lead to eating and body image disorders. Just help provide the enviroment and opportunities to bring his weight down to normal.